Washington, DC (September 17, 2003) - As Hurricane Isabel bears down on the Mid-Atlantic region, home care and hospice patients face additional potential dangers. The National Association of Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) urges the public to take extra precautions to ensure their safety as well as the safety of such patients.
“It is critical to be aware of home care patients in your neighborhood during an emergency,” said Val Halamandaris, President of NAHC. “We urge family, friends, neighbors and professional caregivers to assist these folks in their homes to prepare for worst-case scenarios.”
NAHC recommends:
Have back-up for life support and other medical devices in the event of a power outage. Check with manufacturers or suppliers of life support equipment ventilators, oxygen concentrators, feeding pumps, infusion pumps, glucose monitors, etc. in the home, to see if equipment may be affected. Have suitable batteries available.
Stock up on medications. Check the inventory of regularly used prescription and non-prescription medications, and make sure there is enough for at least a week.
Keep emergency medical supplies on hand. Purchase wound care items like scissors, moistened antiseptic towelettes, hand antiseptic gel, antiseptic, gauze pads, latex gloves, and tape.
Make a list of emergency contact numbers.
Ensure the safety of home care patients. In emergency situations,
professional caregivers may experience delays in reaching patients,
so it is crucial for family, friends, and neighbors to check on patients
during an emergency. Know your neighbors and their special needs.
NAHC is the world’s largest representative for home-delivered health care. Since its inception in 1982, NAHC has championed home care for America’s frail, disabled and senior citizens. Home health and hospice services range from high-tech skilled nursing and therapy to personal care management. Such care is available by the visit or around the clock. For more information about home care or NAHC, call 202/547-7424 or visit online at www.nahc.org.
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